Getting Here
With multiple ports and two airports, the question is not how will you get to St. Maarten, but rather when? Whether you are coming in from abroad or within the region, there are many entry points that will get you started on your adventure in St. Maarten. No matter if you are staying on French St. Martin or Dutch St. Maarten, the island has open borders, which allows you to explore the tastes of two countries in one.
One Island, Two Airports
Flying into Princess Juliana International Airport, PJIA, is an experience like no other. The airport connects to many international gateways from the United States, Europe, and South America. PJIA, airport code SXM, connects to major gateway cities. A flight from New York is just a 4-hour trip, and flying in from Miami is just a 3-hour flight away. Known as the Caribbean Hub, there are plenty of regional connection flights within the Caribbean as well. Not only is PJIA a major hub port within the region, but it is also known for its picturesque landings at Maho Beach. Many flock to view the landings or withstand the blow of a 747. Be sure to check the daily arrival schedule at Sunset Beach Bar to catch these thrilling views. Located on the Dutch side between Maho and Simpson Bay, PJIA is a 10-minute ride to beaches, restaurants, hotels, and nightlife fun. While the island is only 37 square miles, visitors can choose to fly into a second airport. PJIA offers VIP service and storage to private charters. Flying in from within the French Caribbean? Fly into L'Espérance Airport in Grand Case. With the island’s open border, clearing immigration through any immigration port is all you need to explore both French and Dutch St. Maarten.
St. Maarten Port, Nearby Ports, & Simpson Bay Marina
If you find yourself on a Caribbean cruise with St. Maarten on their itinerary, you will disembark at St. Maarten Harbor in Philipsburg. Several major cruise lines are known to have a port call in St. Maarten, and we’re known for being an iconic cruising destination. The port offers plenty of shopping opportunities and access to the island’s town and Great Bay Beach. Philipsburg is a short walk, drive, or water taxi away for endless shopping and dining options. With access to the Boardwalk, you can lounge all day under the sun at Great Bay Beach. Those who are traveling on their own private vessel will be delighted by the world-class marinas dotting the island offering dockage and premium amenities and services, in the Simpson Bay Lagoon. Chartering a mega yacht dock at the Simpson Bay Marina? With close proximity to PJIA Airport and its direct gateway connection, you’ll have the utmost ease flying in and being transported in absolute luxury. No matter how you get here, St. Maarten welcomes you with open arms.
Before You Travel
U.S. Citizens traveling to and from St. Maarten must present a valid passport when leaving and or re-entering the United States. Residents must present their Alien Resident Card (Green Card) together with the passport of the country for which they hold citizenship. Canadian Citizens will require a valid passport or a government-issued identification with photograph, along with an official birth certificate. Canadian residents must present a Canadian Permanent Resident Card and a passport showing their country of citizenship. All visitors are required to travel with a return ticket or onward ticket for entry into the island. For more information on the specific documents needed to travel, visit our Passport and Immigration pages. You will also be required to fill out a Health Declaration Form as a COVID-19 Safety Precaution Entry requirement. It must be filled out 72–24 hours in advance.
